Welcome to Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights Website

Welcome. I am Maria Otero, the Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights.

Our office works to build more democratic, secure, stable, and just societies by addressing the civilian security, legal protections, human rights and stability issues that are at the heart of American foreign policy.

Working with other U.S. Government agencies and foreign partners, our mission is to prevent and respond to conflict, promote peace, strengthen and develop the rule of law and counter violent extremism. We also work to help countries build democratic institutions, deepen respect for universal human rights, strengthen civilian protection and security, and advance United States humanitarian policies and practices around the world.

Whether it be Bujumbura or Bali, Tunis or Tegucigalpa, we believe that more stable, just, democratic, secure societies are better partners, better protectors, and better traders – and consumers -- than unstable ones. That serves the American interest as well as the citizens of nations around the world.

Thank you for visiting our website. I encourage you to take a moment to explore the work we are doing and to stay connected to our office through the social media links found on our page and email updates. You’ll also find links to each of our bureaus and offices that work together to elevate and integrate civilian security, democracy, and human rights into our foreign policy priorities. Thank you.

The Office of Website Management, Bureau of Public Affairs, manages this site as a portal for information from the U.S. State Department.
External links to other Internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views or privacy policies contained therein.

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